How To Celebrate the Fourth of July

John Adams told Americans how to celebrate our independence in a letter to his wife, Abigail. He noted:

"...I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated, by succeeding Generations, as the great anniversary Festival. It ought to be commemorated, as the Day of Deliverance by solemn Acts of Devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more. You will think me transported with Enthusiasm but I am not. I am well aware of the Toil and Blood and Treasure, that it will cost Us to maintain this Declaration, and support and defend these States. Yet through all the Gloom I can see the Rays of ravishing Light and Glory. I can see that the End is more than worth all the Means..." ~~~John Adams July 3, 1776

Most people intuitively know to revere and respect this day. I have discovered, throughout the years, that respect is a very prevalent attitude wherever you go on the Fourth of July. People are celebrating in some way or other and usually in a large-group setting. Fire works in the evening are a must for most and they will travel miles to find them. People, on a very deep level, are thankful on this day. People love the freedom this country provides no matter what their party affiliation. I sense this and I know it is true for the majority. Of course, the kids just think its fun to have a day of fireworks!

I totally agree with you on your note that despite political affiliation, the majority of Americans love freedom and love this country.

And, I like you, think it shows on the 4th of July.

I had an incredible experience on 4 July 2002---less than a year after 9/11.

I was at L.L.Bean (Freeport, Maine) for the annual 4th of July parade and concert and fireworks. Just as the band was playing a song called "We the People" and getting the crowd to sing-along, the fireworks---unrelated to the show, started.

The audience was overcome with patriotism and with the freedom we all enjoy and will do (I think and hope) just about anything to preserve.

I am actually planning to write a hub about how this is a Cancerian nation and we really just need to CLOSE our borders to protect our revered home and family life…According To Me... (another fellow crab!)

We've having a pool party/cookout/barbecue. Hubby's smoking some butts, and the sons-in-law are grilling sausage and hot dogs. Of course, we'll have appetizers, side dishes, and desserts, too.Randy and Beth, hope to see...

Hi Hubbers,I'd like some help with passing the Quality Assessment Process. Will you please give feedback on my Hub 7 non-standard ways to celebrate the 4th of July (must be signed in to view). What can I do to improve?...

I just wanted to take a moment to say happy day to everyone. I'm posting it here since this is usually where I hang out on the forums. We were planning a BBQ, but with this heat wave, we decided to have salads,...